Ernie Alvarado is the executive chef at URBANA Mexican Gastronomy & Mixology, a vibrant eatery with locations in Del Mar and Anaheim. “URBANA Mexican Gastronomy is a nod to delicious street food from central Mexico. We have an electric menu from red snapper ceviche to gourmet tacos made with house tortillas.” Learn about Ernie Alvarado…
Follow at: @Chef_Ernie; @UrbanaAnaheim; @UrbanaDelMar
Hometown: Jalisco, Mexico and Anaheim, CA
First job: My first job was in the agave fields in Jalisco, Mexico.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: I love looking for new trails in national parks. I regularly visit Joshua Tree, but my favorite is Zion National Park in Utah.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Receiving numerous awards and being on several TV shows.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: I always wanted to have control over everything in the kitchen and do everything myself. I overcame this by delegating tasks to my team.
Someone who inspires you and why: Anthony Bourdain is an inspiration. He is not only a great chef but an adventurous person who loves to have a good time.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Always be hungry to learn and be better. There’s always something new to learn.
Favorite quote: “Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don’t have.” —Anthony Bourdain
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: Before becoming a chef, I wanted to be a professional soccer player.
What makes someone fabulous: Having a great attitude and sense of humor!